With today's complex
multi
universe lighting consoles it is often comforting to have a standby
console
or controller. But the thought of replugging three - maybe eight -
universes
of DMX512 under the table (usually in the dark!) during a performance
is
not pleasant!

So Goddard Design
introduces
the Smart Switch
and the Smart Switch 8:4.
Housed in 1U 19" racks each provides switching between primary and
backup
for up to four pairs of DMX512. Each pair of inputs has a main and
backup
XLR. Valid data is indicated via LEDs. In the event of a main data
failure
or disconnect, the unit will check to see if all the available backup
inputs
have valid data and if so, switch all outputs to the backup. The Smart
Switch switches one universe; the Smart
Switch 8:4 switches four. Each of
the
outputs will indicate if operating in backup mode via a LED.

Additional
features
of the Smart Switch 8:4.

If a main input fails
and the
unit senses that another input pair has a main but not a backup, it
will
switch only the defective pair to backup.

A remote connector on
the rear
panel allows for manual switchover using an external switch.

Units can also be
slaved together
to construct larger multi universe systems.

Both Smart
Switches are powerful problem
solvers
available at reasonable prices.